Modi, Trump praise NRIs; begin trade deal negotiations on Day 2

Giving a joint statement prior to a closed-door session at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump stated that they were ready to start negotiations for a new bilateral trade deal even as the US-Indian partnership was stronger than ever before.

Modi and US President Donald Trump on Tuesday held extensive talks covering the entire spectrum of bilateral ties, including the key areas of defence, security, and trade and investment. Photo courtesy: MEA

Modi also had a special mention for NRIs and the Indian diaspora in the US, stating they were the most important foundation of the special relationship between India and the US. “Our NRI ambassadors are through their talent and hard work contributing democratic Indian values and enriching the US culture,” he said.

He also called for a totalisation agreement based on social security contributions by Indian professionals in the US to grant them special amenities and rewards.

Trump in his statement said that the US-India partnership is stronger than ever before and focused on the defence deals he had signed with India.

"PM Modi and I discussed defence in detail and have agreed on a comprehensive defence deal. The deal would include procurement of 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters by India. Another contract to acquire six AH-64E Apache helicopters..." President Trump said.

Modi and US President Donald Trump on Tuesday held extensive talks covering the entire spectrum of bilateral ties, including the key areas of defence, security, and trade and investment.

"If the trade deal happens with India, it will be towards the end of the year," said Trump in an evening press conference.

The Trumps had earlier paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at his memorial in Rajghat in Delhi after a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan where he inspected the Guard of Honour.

In the evening, Trump will attend a state banquet hosted in his honour by President Kovind. Later, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will also call on the visiting US President.